Friendly match helped us assess weaknesses – Okwi

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The new captain of the Uganda Cranes Emmanuel Arnold Okwi believes the international friendly game played against South Africa on Thursday helped them identify their mistakes before heading to 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Hosts South Africa defeated Uganda Cranes 3-2 in an international friendly match played at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto yesterday.

After the game, Okwi said the game helped the team to understand their weaknesses before they go for the tough World Cup qualifiers. He however pointed out that the new players displayed a good performance against the Bafana Bafana.

Against South Africa, the Uganda Cranes dominated almost the entire first half with Okwi initiating several attacks together with Ibrahim Oriti and Allan Okello. Oriti gave Uganda Cranes the lead early in the first half.

Despite leading in the half time, Uganda Cranes failed to defend its lead and South Africa returned to score through Bongokuhle Hlongwane and a brace by Evidence Magkopa. Substitute Abdul Lumala scored Uganda Cranes’ second goal.

Abdallah Mubiru, the Uganda Cranes interim coach said the team played well in the first half however they lost track in the second half which eventually made them suffer defeat.

Uganda Cranes and South Africa used the match to prepare ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers that start in September. Uganda is grouped alongside Mali, Rwanda and Kenya.

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